It’s been a rollercoaster ride. As many new (and experienced) parents would soon find out, nothing can prepare you for what’s to come with the new arrival.

First two weeks were a blur. I was high on adrenaline from the birth and buzzed through non-stop feeds, nappy changing and night time duties. I even managed to keep up with the housework (somewhat). Thinking I had escaped the baby blues, only to find that it had creeped up on me unannounced.

In the midst of the chaos, it was difficult to imagine if the tiresome fussing was ever going to end. Then suddenly, the crying stopped and became a coo and a gaa. The frown turned into a smile. And the night time wake up calls gradually eased off from two-hourly to three, then four, five and six.

Mornings are precious. Despite the general lack of sleep, I’m learning to enjoy the quiet hours before anyone wakes up. Time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast, read and plan for the day/week ahead.

And here’s the thing. I love cooking and hosting dinner parties, but it takes time and often requires planning ahead. So here is my food journey for all parents and non-parents out there looking for a quick recipe idea or meal planner (complete with shopping list). Hopefully you can indulge in more cuddle time and still enjoy a tasty home cooked meal.

If you have any recipes you’d like me to share – whether it’s for grown ups, children, toddlers or babies – email me.